Japanese Samurai Tantō 27th Generation Kanemoto NBTHK Hozon Description This preserved tantō was forged on the auspicious date of August 30th, 1975 (Year of the Rabbit, Yimao year) by the 27th Generation Kanemoto, real name Kaneko Tatsuichiro. Born in 1924, Kaneko entered the Seki City Japanese Sword Forging School in 1937, where he studied under the master Watanabe Kanenaga. In 1944, he succeeded to the distinguished name of Kanemoto, representing the 27th generation of the Honkawa family. Following the war, Kanemoto’s works were exhibited at the New Sword Exhibition (Shinsakutō Tenran-kai), where he received numerous awards. In 1989, he became Chairman of the Seki Swordsmiths’ Association, and in 1997, he was designated an Important Intangible Cultural Property of Gifu Prefecture. He passed away in 2008 at the age of 83, leaving behind an enduring legacy within the world of modern Japanese swordsmithing. This tantō is further enhanced by a finely carved lotus flower horimono, a symbol of purity and spiritual strength in Japanese art. The delicate carving adds both elegance and depth to the blade, showcasing the smith’s mastery not only in forging but also in artistic embellishment. Specifications Blade length (nagasa): 26.6 cm Sori (curvature): 0 cm (straight blade) Motohaba (width at hamachi): 2.7 cm Kasane (thickness): 6.5 mm Mekugi-ana: 1 Era (jidai): Showa era (1975) Province: Gifu Prefecture Certificate: NBTHK Hozon (Worthy of Preservation) Highlights Forged by 27th Generation Kanemoto (Kaneko Tatsuichiro, 1924–2008) Designated Important Intangible Cultural Property of Gifu Prefecture Straight tantō form with strong, elegant construction Features a beautifully carved lotus flower horimono Accompanied by NBTHK Hozon certificate A refined piece of modern sword artistry, uniting the long Kanemoto tradition with elegant spiritual symbolism. An excellent addition for advanced collectors and connoisseurs.